What does meta-analysis involve in research?

Meta-analysis is a statistical technique used in research that involves the process of combining results from multiple studies to arrive at a more comprehensive understanding of a particular phenomenon or to derive overall conclusions. This method is particularly valuable because it allows researchers to evaluate the consistency of findings across different contexts or populations, increasing the statistical power and providing a more robust estimate of effects or relationships.

By aggregating data from a variety of sources, meta-analysis helps to identify patterns that may not be evident in a single study and allows researchers to account for variability among study results. This approach can lead to more reliable conclusions and inform further research directions or clinical practices.

In contrast, collecting data from a single study, conducting interviews with participants, or designing a new experimental study represents distinct methodologies that do not encompass the broader, integrative approach taken by meta-analysis.